Prince William talks farmer mental health on Herefordshire visit

The Prince of Wales visited a family farm in Herefordshire to highlight the importance of mental health support within the farming community.

Prince William, who became patron of Herefordshire-based charity We are Farming Minds last March, met farmers at a 77ha family farm run by John and Laura Bowler.

During the visit, the prince met Mr Bowler, who unexpectedly took over the farm following the death of his father in 2012, aged just 19.

See also: Farming charities highlight resources to help tackle stress

Facing significant challenges, he later sought support from We are Farming Minds.

The charity was established to break the stigma surrounding mental health in farming, with its core focus on supporting rural communities in Herefordshire.

The Prince discusses mental health issues in with farmers © Kensingston Palace

Prince William sat down with the Bowlers alongside charity founder Sam Stables to discuss the importance of accessible mental health support.

After a mug of hot cider in the bar, the prince then joined the couple in their daily work, helping to prune apple trees in the orchard, build fencing and feed sheep.

Arriving dressed in a green jacket and flat cap, the prince joked he was in the “lumberjack zone” as he got stuck in.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Bowler described the visit as “a massive honour”, while Mrs Bowler said it provided “a real boost at the time of year when farmers are often at their lowest”.

Prince Williams meets farmers Johan and Laura Bowler © Kensington Palace

Calls to helpline double

Mr Stables said calls to the charity’s support line had more than doubled over the past year, as farmers grapple with rising costs, long working hours, uncertainty around future farm policy and concerns over inheritance tax.

“The farming industry is in crisis,” he told the BBC. “Having the support of the prince is incredible.”

The Prince of Wales became patron of We Are Farming Minds in March 2025 and remains committed to supporting farmers’ mental health across the UK.